Joplin nearing completion of nearly $100 million in federally funded improvements
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The city of Joplin is entering the final stages of nearly $100 million in infrastructure, public safety, and community improvement projects made possible through federal grants and local matching funds.
City officials announced Friday that Joplin secured nearly $58 million in federal funding after applying for more than 50 grants over three years.
The city received 26 grants, with nearly $34 million in required local matching funds bringing the total approved project costs to $97.3 million.
The funding came through programs including the American Rescue Plan Act, Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, and Inflation Reduction Act.
City Finance Director Leslie Haase said the funding allowed Joplin to complete major improvements much faster than would otherwise have been possible.
The city estimates raising an equivalent amount through its capital improvement sales tax would have taken approximately 12 years.
Among the projects completed or nearing completion are the widening of 20th Street and Zora Street, eight stormwater improvement projects, drinking water extensions, and improvements to the city's emergency communications system.
Federal funding also supported additional police body cameras, firefighter protective equipment, cybersecurity upgrades, and Missouri Southern State University's Health Science Innovation Center.
Several projects remain underway, including citywide broadband implementation, the Grand Falls Trail and improvements at Parr Hill Park.
A recreational trails grant will fund improvements at 12 Joplin parks, including 80 benches, trail signs, bicycle racks and tire repair stations.
The city is also preparing to begin the final phase of its Main Street streetscaping project.
The $5 million project will improve Main Street between Eighth and 15th streets, connecting previously completed improvements downtown and in Southtown.
Plans include new sidewalks, decorative concrete, benches, trees, and other enhancements.
City officials will hold a public meeting in the next several weeks so you can review the plans and ask questions.
